Rehabilitation of berths 39 to 42 and key 42-43: a strategic project at the heart of the solid bulk sector

One of the distinguishing features of the berths involved is that their structures date from different periods, combining facilities built in the 1920s with others dating back to the 1950s. Depending on the section, the berth foundations consist of either wooden or concrete caissons. In 2022, the connection key between berths 42 and 43 underwent temporary repairs following significant settlement. The objective now is to carry out a complete rehabilitation.

The project includes several types of interventions:

• repair of ladders and keys;
• reconstruction of the concrete face of the coping wall on berths 41 and 42 to a depth of 200 mm;
• localized underwater repairs to the concrete caissons.

The worksite will continue through mid-December according to a phased schedule:

• April: site set up and start of work on the ladders at berths 39-40;
• May: start of demolition work on the berth façade;
• May 19 to June 30: deconstruction and reconstruction of connection key 42-43;
• Until mid-December: rehabilitation of caisson joint keys, the coping wall façade, and deteriorated concrete areas on the concrete caissons.

Berth 41-42 will notably need to be closed to vessels for five weeks to allow for the complete reconstruction of key 42-43.

The project’s main challenge remains operational coexistence. The work is taking place in the heart of the solid bulk terminal, in immediate proximity to storage sheds and daily handling operations involving grain, salt, gypsum, and fertilizer. In collaboration with Logistec, a traffic corridor has been maintained to allow truck circulation and ensure business continuity.

“We must avoid disrupting operations, but we also need to maintain our infrastructure. We have to adapt to the operator,” explains Nora.

In this context, the contractor had to adapt work methods to minimize impacts on port operations. Small-scale equipment was prioritized to work within the confined space directly from the top of the berth, including a compact excavator equipped with a circular attachment called a Kemrock, capable of rapidly breaking down concrete.

The project brings together several specialized teams. For the work on the ladders at berths 39 to 42, walkways were first installed to secure access. Divers will then take over to carry out underwater interventions, including demolition and repair of joints between the caissons, ladders, and foundations.

From an environmental perspective, particular attention is being paid to protect the aquatic environment. In addition to the walkways, two barges are being used to recover debris generated by the work. The entire project is being carried out in compliance with current environmental requirements. Audrey Laprade, Environmental Advisor, is supporting the inspection team in this regard.